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Description

Hotei was an eccentric of Tang-dynasty China who became a prominent figure in Zen Buddhist literature. He epitomizes the figure outside the mainstream monastic system who attains a high level of spiritual awakening. The inscription warns against seeking enlightenment by conscious effort: "Big stomach, gaping garment, Treasures gathered deep in the bottom of his bag, Passing through the sky is another road, Do not seek that to which his fingertip points."

Inscriptions

Inscription

seal of the artist is at the lower right. Inscription at top of painting is signed by Tokei Dojin and reads:
Big stomach, gaping garment,
Treasures gathered deep in the bag's bottom
Passing through the sky is another road,
Do not seek what his fingertip points out.

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